Page 67 - 2017 Reading Summit Guidebook

Booktalking: Is Your Booktalk WOW-Ready?
3
Find a hook.
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Don’t give it all away.
5
Enhance your presentation with props.
Read your book thoroughly.
1
Make sure this is a book you love; if you’d rate it less than an eight out of 10, find q Haavedyifofeuresenltecbtoedoky!our book?
• You can’t have the right booktalk without the right book! See “Booktalking: Have I Chosen the 2 RigOhtpBeonok?s”troon npag!e 1 for guidance.
Complete this simple ve-step checklist to ensure that your booktalk is ready for its debut.
You might even want to take notes if inspiration strikes while you are reading!
Think about starting your booktalk by asking a question: “What scares you the most?” Or start by giving your thoughts on a character you loved: “This is the
q Have you written or typed your booktalk?
bravest dog I’ve ever met.” Don’t start with something predictable like, “This
book is called...” or “This book is about...” Surprise and excite your audience!
• When tested in booktalk groups, even the most theatrical students and adults did better with
a written, rehearsed draft. Depending on your writing preference, use full sentences, an outline,
or bullets.
Consider your audience. Is there some element of this story that you know will
especially interest your peers? Perhaps there’s intense magic, an adorable
q Have you practiced it out loud, in front of a mirror or a friend?
dog, or a talented surfer? Think about the aspects of the story that made it
• Practice makes perfect ... or at least it makes you comfortable when getting up in front of
engaging for you.
an audience.
qDidThititnakeotfhtrheieslmikienuatepsreovrilewss,tnoostharwe?holemovie.Leavethembeggingformore! End with a cliffhanger such as, “Will he get out in time?” Remember, the idea is
• As we mentioned on page 1, less is more! Make sure your booktalk includes intriguing
to get them interested enough to want to read the book.
highlights without giving too much away. The goal is to entice your audience to pick up the book ... and read it!
Carry an umbrella for a book about a rainy day, or wear a cap for a book about
q Have you considered adding visuals, such as props or a costume?
baseball. Be creative! Just be sure not to wear anything that will muffle your
• Visuals can be a nice way to immerse your audience even deeper into the story, as long as it ts
6
Suggest other great reads.
sound, such as a mask. What you are saying is much more important than how
well into your booktalk and isn’t distracting.
you look!
Once you’ve completed each of these steps, you’re ready to WOW your audience!
Shake off the nerves—you’ve got this!
“If you liked _____, then you’ll love this!” Think of a similar book which you know was a hit in your school or classroom.
Have fun!
Student
Student Booktalk Tips
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